Any Active CATIA V4 Users on HP-UX?

I have used CATIA V4 in my previous workplaces during the initial layout phase of design, particularly for defining fundamental surfaces. I am currently proficient in CATIA V5, and in my most recent position, I actively utilized 3DEXPERIENCE as well. However, I still believe that CATIA V4 offers unique capabilities in early-stage automotive design that cannot be fully replaced by newer versions.
Recently, I left my job to start a new business, and in preparation, I have secured unused HP C8000 workstations to continue using CATIA V4. However, after contacting Dassault Systèmes' local partners in Korea, I was deeply disappointed to learn that purchasing or maintaining CATIA V4 is no longer possible.
I would like to test the performance of CATIA V4 on the HP C8000 under HP-UX. Would it be possible to obtain a demo version for this purpose?
1 Answer

I have used CATIA V4 in my previous workplaces during the initial layout phase of design, particularly for defining fundamental surfaces. I am currently proficient in CATIA V5, and in my most recent position, I actively utilized 3DEXPERIENCE as well. However, I still believe that CATIA V4 offers unique capabilities in early-stage automotive design that cannot be fully replaced by newer versions.
Recently, I left my job to start a new business, and in preparation, I have secured unused HP C8000 workstations to continue using CATIA V4. However, after contacting Dassault Systèmes' local partners in Korea, I was deeply disappointed to learn that purchasing or maintaining CATIA V4 is no longer possible.
I would like to test the performance of CATIA V4 on the HP C8000 under HP-UX. Would it be possible to obtain a demo version for this purpose?
It sounds like you have extensive experience with CATIA V4 and a strong appreciation for its unique capabilities in early-stage automotive design. Unfortunately, as you’ve discovered, Dassault Systèmes has discontinued official support and licensing for CATIA V4, making it nearly impossible to obtain a legitimate copy—even for testing purposes.
### Possible Alternatives:
1. Legacy Version Inquiry – While Dassault no longer sells or supports V4, some third-party resellers or industrial partners might still have access to older licenses. However, this is increasingly rare.
2. Virtualization/Emulation – If your HP C8000 workstations are no longer operational, you might consider running HP-UX in an emulator (like HPE’s legacy solutions or QEMU for testing). However, licensing remains an issue.
3. 3DEXPERIENCE with Legacy Compatibility – Dassault has integrated some V4 functionalities into newer platforms. You might explore whether 3DEXPERIENCE’s CATIA V5/V6 or DELMIA can replicate your workflow.
4. Used Market/CAD Communities – Some engineering firms or retired professionals may still have old licenses, but transferring them legally is complicated.
### Demo Version?
Officially, Dassault no longer provides demos of V4. However, you could:
- Contact Dassault’s Korea office again, emphasizing your legacy hardware testing needs—they might offer guidance (though unlikely).
- Look for academic or historical archives (some universities or museums maintain old engineering software).
### Final Thoughts:
Since you already have the HP C8000 hardware, your best bet might be finding a pre-existing installation (if any exist in your network). Otherwise, transitioning fully to V5/3DEXPERIENCE with customized workflows may be necessary.
Would you like help adapting your V4 techniques to newer CATIA versions? I might be able to suggest alternative approaches.